Iwate Prefecture

Iwate is where I spend most of my time when I visit Japan. My parents and my dad’s side of the family lives here. Here are my favorites:

• Morioka - Nagasawa Coffee, Baeren Brewery, Asabiraki Sake, Craftbeer Hoppers, PyonPyon, Fukuda Pan,

• Hanamaki - Mannira Ramen, Hanamaki Toy Museum, 2021 MLB All-Star Game Plaque, Yusen Shidate Ryokan, Kowaen, Sasachou

• Kitakami - Tenshochi Park, Wakana Steak House,

• Nishiwaga - Kitchen Kai, Kinshu Lake,

• Oshu - 315 Beer, Oigen Factory Shop, Oshu City Traditional Industries Museum, JA Esashi Esashi Furusato Market, Tambo Art, Oishinbo, Fujiwara Heritage Park, Shibazakura Park,

• Ichinoseki - Sekinoichi Beer and Sake, Geibikei Gorge (pictured), Kanayama Rice Terraces, Michinoku Hydrangea Garden, Genbikei Gorge (yes, it sounds like the other one without the ‘n’, Sahara Glass Park, かっこうだんご (Kako Dango), Michinoeki Genbikei

• Harauzumi - Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō, Chuson-ji,

• Tono - Tono Brewing, NoTo General Store, Tada Shizen Farm Shop

• Miyako - Jodogahama Beach, Uminomiruku

• Iwaizumi - Ryūsendō Cave

• Kitayamazaki Lookout

Miyagi Prefecture

My mom’s side of the family lives in Miyagi but I haven’t spent as much time here. Usually just go straight to my grandma’s house.

• Matsushima - Matsushima Fish Market, Cafe le Roman, Fukuurabashi Bridge (pictured)